1. The State of Louisiana – Cajun (or Regular) Pasta Jambalaya

Ingredients:
3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts cooked and shredded
1 pound of shrimp, cooked
1 green and red bell pepper
½ onion, diced
½ lb. of Andouille Sausage, sliced
2 cups of chicken broth
1 can of Rotel Mild Tomatoes
1 lb. of pasta (you can use any kind that you prefer, I prefer Linguine or Fettucine)
Cajun Seasoning/Salt/Pepper

In a large skillet, lined with a small amount of melted butter, mix chicken, shrimp, onion, sausage, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook on medium for 10-15 minutes. Toss in some olive oil and mix well. Add sliced bell peppers, chicken broth and the can of Rotel, cooking on medium heat until peppers are cooked.

Cook the pound of pasta separately, boiling on medium heat, stirring occasionally for 5-7 minutes until cooked. Drain noodles and add to a large bowl. Add cooked mixture to the pasta and mix well. Garnish with a sliced lemon, and parsley and some additional Cajun seasoning. Enjoy!

2. The State of Alabama – Cheesy Chicken Casserole

Ingredients:
3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
½ onion, diced & sautéed
1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup of milk
1 can of cream of chicken soup
Pepper/Salt
2 cups of crushed Ritz Crackers
¼ cup of butter, melted

In a large bowl, mix chicken, onion, cheese, milk, cream of chicken soup, pepper and salt. Add mixture to a baking dish. Cook on 375 for 30 minutes. Remove dish from oven, top casserole with some additional shredded cheese, then add the 2 cups of crushed Ritz Crackers, topping finally with ¼ cup of melted butter, drizzled over the top. Put the dish back into the oven and bake for 10 more minutes. This dish pairs well with cornbread, salad, vegetables, and almost anything else!

3. The State of Georgia – Georgia Caviar

Ingredients:
2 cans of black-eyed peas
¼ cup of sliced jalapenos
Salt/Pepper/Parsley
1 tablespoon of chopped garlic
½ cup of cream cheese
½ cup of sour cream
½ cup of shredded pepper jack cheese

Mix all ingredients in a bowl, adding mixture to a similar sized baking dish. Bake on 350 for 30 minutes. Remove and top with a small amount of pepper jack cheese. Put the dish back into the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Remove and cool slightly. Add some tortilla chips and serve!